When the Electric Samurai was born, I made a decision not to run articles that were related to battlegames or combat. These were always something I considered as belonging to AmtgardCombat.com. With the apparent demise of that excellent website, e-Samurai will now run these sorts of articles. -- Randall

Amtgard Football Game Rules Version 1.0

Materials Required

1. Nerf-type football.

2. Some method of marking both the end zones.

3. Two markers, one for each side of the midfield.

4. Method of marking the sidelines.

5. Timekeeper (optional, if you want a timed game).

6. Have plenty of liquids on hand to drink as this game is very taxing.

Number of Players

I would not recommend playing this game with more than thirty people. I prefer around twenty players, with ten per team. This keeps with the football theme.

Object of the Game

The object of the game is to score ten goals. A player having possession of the ball in the end zone of the opposing team scores a goal. This can be accomplished by advancing the ball on foot, receiving the ball from another player, or gaining possession of a loose ball in the end zone.

Death and Rebirth

You have unlimited lives in this game. When you are killed you must immediately walk to one of midfield sideline markers and tap it your weapon. From this point, you walk to your end zone and come immediately back to life.

Rules of Combat

Typical Amtgard rules of combat are in play.

Per Life and Per Game Abilities

As this is a full-class battlegame with unlimited lives, per game abilities and spells are handled differently. At a combined total of seven goals, per game abilities reset. This includes spells. Barbarians can go berzerk once every seven goals. This means they can go berserk twice per game. Note: Barbarians may begin the game berzerk if they wish.

Rules for Advancing the Ball

You may not carry a weapon, shield or wand while possessing the ball. No spells may be cast while possessing the ball. The ball may not be used to block. The ball is considered a game object. Optional rule: No class abilities may be used while possessing the ball. Examples: touch of death, berzerk, armor, blocking projectiles with hands, etc. If you are killed, you must immediately drop the ball where you were killed. You may throw, kick or otherwise move the ball, assuming you are not holding weapons, shield or wand.

Sidelines

The sidelines must be clearly marked. When the ball goes out of bounds, possession immediately goes to the other team, who then throws the ball in from out of bounds to a teammate.

End Zone

The end zone should be clearly marked. Marking lines across the field is preferred. The end zone could also be marked with cones, shields, etc.